

Swiss watch based on Helvetica typeface arrives at Dezeen Watch Store
Dezeen Watch Store: Swiss watchmaker Mondaine has released a watch dedicated to Helvetica, the iconic typeface designed in 1957 by Max Miedinger and Eduard Hoffmann.
Now available to buy at Dezeen Watch Store, Helvetica watch was created by German industrial designer Martin Drechsel and comes in three "weights" that represent the principles of the original typeface: Light, Bold and Regular.


"Just like Helvetica, we thought it should be an interesting and diversified family," Drechsel told Dezeen Watch Store in an interview.
"We wanted to offer delicate Light and solid Bold versions, as well as a moderate Regular too – different versions for different occasions and personalities."


The hour markers, indexes and text features on the watch face are set in Helvetica, while the lugs are modelled on the curved crossbar of the typeface's 1 digit.


One of the most popular typefaces among designers, versions of Helvetica have been used in multinational brand identities, New York's subway signage and throughout Apple's iOS operating system.


"Helvetica’s pleasant harmony and consistency seems to be very close to the ideal of a sans-serif font. It’s pure, strong and subtle at the same time," Drechsel said.
"It's rather unobtrusive, not trying to be the focus of attention. It has some kind of quiet, modest beauty."


Six models are now in stock at Dezeen Watch Store: Helvetica bold 43mm black, Helvetica regular 33mm in white/polished and Helvetica light 38mm in brushed/brown, gold/black, gold/white and white/brushed silver.
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